Alaska and British Columbia Wilderness, Glaciers and Culture (Southbound) (13)

Alaska Cruise | Alaska and British Columbia - Wilderness, Glaciers and Culture (Southbound)


Alaska
© HX

Duration: 13 days on board
Starts: Anchorage, Alaska
Ends: Vancouver, Canada
Language: English speaking voyage


Included
Optional


Cruise Overview
Alaska Cruise | Alaska and British Columbia - Wilderness, Glaciers and Culture (Southbound) 2025/26
Explore the vast wilderness and historic towns of Alaska as you journey from Anchorage to Vancouver.
Discover Alaska's wild landscapes and captivating fjords, scanning for humpback whales, Bald Eagles and bears along the way.
Enjoy a scenic overland journey to Seward, and experience the vibrant city of Vancouver, visiting historic Gastown, Granville Street and West End beaches.

Soul-stirring scenery and wildlife
After a scenic overland transfer from Anchorage, we voyage from Seward to Vancouver and begin an expedition cruise to show you the remarkable diversity of nature and culture offered by Alaska and British Columbia. You’ll see towering mountains whose flanks are clad in old growth rainforest, and you’ll also see glittering glaciers and deep blue fjords. As we progress, we’ll be on the lookout for some of Alaska’s many wild species, including Bald Eagles, moose, bears, Steller sea lions, otters, orca, humpback whales and many, many seabirds.

A land of living cultures
Alaska has a rich and complex history and is home to numerous cultures. From native peoples including the Tlingit and Haida, to the Russian settlers and the American Gold Rush pioneers – there's so much to discover on your voyage. Activities such as kayaking up to waterfalls in the Misty Fjords, small boat cruising near glaciers, and authentic cultural experiences will ensure Alaska is imprinted onto your very soul.

Itinerary

© HX
© HX
© HX

Day 1 Adventures in Anchorage
Explore Alaska's biggest city
Your Alaskan adventure starts with an overnight stay in Anchorage, a city with plenty of restaurants, galleries and shops. The Anchorage Museum and the Alaska Native Heritage Center give you a taste of local culture. If you prefer the open air, why not visit the flowering Town Square Park, or go salmon fishing in Ship Creek.

To get the most out of your stay, we recommend joining our optional Pre-Programme to the incredible Denali National Park, home to North America’s highest peak and a huge range of Alaskan wildlife.

To get the most out of your stay, we recommend joining our optional Pre-Programme to the incredible Denali National Park, home to North America’s highest peak and a huge range of Alaskan wildlife.

Day 2 A first taste of awesome Alaskan
Enjoy a drive through spectacular scenery
After breakfast you’ll enjoy a scenic drive to Seward. Our route goes through the Kenai Peninsula, considered by Alaskans and visitors alike to be some of the world’s most awe-inspiring backcountry scenery. The transfer will take you through this stunning scenery as we wend our way to the Pacific coast where our expedition ship awaits.

Our embarkation point, Seward, is the only deep-water ice-free port with road, rail and air connections to Alaska’s interior. Once you board MS Roald Amundsen, locate your cabin and explore this spacious and comfortable expedition ship which will be your home for almost two weeks.

Day 3 Ivy League glaciers
Get ready to experience nature’s raw power
Today we visit College Fjord, which features five tidewater glaciers and five valley glaciers, as well as a dozen other types.

The 1899 Harriman expedition team, which charted the fjord, named the glaciers after their alma maters, including Vassar, Harvard and Yale. Princeton is missing, apparently a deliberate snub.

We’ll get as close to the glaciers as we safely can, taking our small expedition boats into the fjord or even exploring by kayak if conditions permit. From the water, you might catch sight of humpback whales, Bald Eagles, otters and sea lions, all of which inhabit this icy wilderness.

Day 4 Glaciers of Icy Bay
Spot wildlife in these glacier-fed waters
Today is an exploration day in Icy Bay. Three glaciers – Guyot, Yahtse and Tyndall – regularly calve into this bay. If conditions allow, you’ll explore in our small expedition boats or by kayak, immersing you in the remarkable beauty of this icy landscape.

Wildlife abounds in the Gulf of Alaska, offering unrivalled photography opportunities. Humpback whales, orcas, Stellar sea lions, sea otters and harbour seals lazing on floating chunks of ice are often seen in these waters.

Day 5 William Henry Bay
See ancient forests, wildlife and whales
In the morning we’ll pass by Point Adolphus, located on the northern tip of Chichagof Island across from Glacier Bay National Park. The nutrient-rich waters are known for attracting humpback whales and other marine life, so be sure to get out on deck and have your camera ready.

William Henry Bay lies south of Haines at the edge of the Chilkat Range mountains, and is home to brown bears, black bears and moose. Under the watchful eye of an expert local guide, we’ll drop anchor here and explore the shores lined with old-growth forest.

Day 6 Tlingit crafts in Haines
Discover an artistic heritage in the 'Valley of the Eagles'
Near the head of the Lynn Canal lies the frontier town of Haines, which was originally home to the Chilkat Tlingit people. They are renowned for their weaving skills, with mountain goat fur and cedar bark woven into intricate designs, and here, you’ll see excellent examples of their work.

Haines has a flourishing art scene, with galleries and workshops showcasing totem carvings, silverwork and sculptures. Taking home some Alaskan arts and crafts is a great way to support local creators. The beautiful landscapes here are also ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting.

Day 7 Tracy Arm and Endicott Arm
See the lesser-known gems of Holkham Bay
Holkham Bay is home to two beautiful fjords – Tracy Arm and Endicott Arm. Your Captain will decide which offers better exploration options on the day.

At the end of each fjord, fresh icebergs calve from the glaciers against a stunning backdrop of rocky cliffs. This area is a breeding ground for harbour seals, who are often seen on the floating ice. You might also see whales, bears and mountain goats.

Day 8 Blended Cultures of Sitka
Take in Sitka’s views and unique mix of cultures
Surrounded by Tongass National Forest, Sitka is only accessible by sea or air. Get out on deck for stunning views of the Sisters Mountains and Mount Edgecumbe volcano.

Inhabited by the Tlingit people for 10,000 years, the town was settled by Russian explorers around the turn of the 19th century before being sold to the United States after Russia lost the Crimean War. Today, Sitka has roots in all three cultures.

A visit to the Russian Orthodox cathedral and Russian Bishop's House is recommended. Admire ornate Haida and Tlingit totem poles at Sitka National Historical Park and enjoy a walking trail through the forest to the ocean.

Day 9 The wonders of the southeast
Discover Southeast Alaska’s magical waterways
Explore Alaska in true expedition style on today’s exploration day in this magical corner of the Inside Passage.

Conditions permitting, we may take to the water in our small expedition boats, and seek out secluded coves, iceberg-filled bays, and thickly forested shorelines. Try and catch a glimpse of some of Alaska’s most iconic wildlife, including Bald Eagles, Pigeon Guillemots, otters, whales and even bears, if luck is on our side.

Day 10 Wrangell's Petroglyphs
Visit one of Alaska’s oldest harbour towns
We continue cruising the Alaskan islands towards Wrangell. Only a mile out of town, Petroglyph Beach is where you'll see ancient rock carvings among the sand.

Visit the local museum to learn more about Wrangell's fascinating past. Now part of the United States, it was once governed by Britain, Russia and the Tlingit people. Cross to Shakes Island, where the Chief Shakes Tribal House and totem poles tell the story of the Indigenous Tlingit people.

Hikers will enjoy the nature trails, surrounded by alluring scenery at the mouth of Stikine River, and the foot of Mount Dewey at the edge of the rainforest.

Day 11 Unspoiled Misty Fjords
Revel in a wilderness where wildlife thrives
Part of the Tongass National Forest, Misty Fjords is a pristine wilderness of evergreens, waterfalls and snow-capped peaks. The revered naturalist writer John Muir described the area as one of the most beautiful places he’d ever seen.

Weather permitting, you'll join the Expedition Team to tour Misty Fjords in our small expedition boats, or take kayaks out.

Misty Fjords is rich in wildlife. You’ll scan for mountain goats, bears and moose as you explore. The waters are home to Pacific salmon, otters, sea lions, harbour seals, orcas and Dall’s porpoises. Skywards, you might spot herons and Bald Eagles.

Day 12 Canada's Inside Passage
See sublime scenery as we sail the Inside Passage
The Inside Passage coastal route takes us through the great North American Pacific Fjordland, a protected stretch of water over 930 miles long. Unlike other cruises which pass through at night, you’ll be able to view the sublime scenery in all its glory during the day.

Our smaller expedition ship allows us to reach areas that larger vessels can’t, meaning you’ll get to explore lesser-travelled channels with breathtaking scenery. Keep your cameras and binoculars at the ready to catch sight of dolphins, porpoises, orcas and humpback whales.

Day 13 Meet the Kwakwaka’wakw
Receive a warm welcome in Alert Bay
We arrive at Alert Bay, a scenic village on Cormorant Island, north of Vancouver Island. Here we'll have the opportunity to meet and learn from the Kwakwaka’wakw First Nations community – to be welcomed by them is a real privilege.

At the U'mista Cultural Center, you'll see elaborate totem poles, paintings, carvings, ceremonial masks and other meaningful artifacts.

The island’s sheltered waters attract a huge array of wildlife – the Yellow-billed Loon, with its distinctive speckled back, is a particular highlight. Keep an eye out for orcas and humpback whales close to shore.

Day 14 A taste of Vancouver
Disembark in British Columbia’s iconic city
Your expedition cruise ends in Vancouver, a beautiful city at the foot of the Rockies. Visit Gastown, the city's oldest neighbourhood, and climb Vancouver Lookout for a citywide view overlooking neon-lit Granville Street, the West End beaches, and the towering cedars of Stanley Park.

Vancouver has a flavour all its own – and so does its global cuisine. Before your onward journey, we recommend you dine out in Chinatown, Punjabi Market or Little Italy for a taste of the city's buzzing atmosphere.

Excursions & Activities
Icy Bay - Icy Bay Small Boat Cruising
Included
Duration 45 mins - 1 hour
Discover Icy Bay’s glaciers and icebergs in explorer style as we cruise aboard our small expedition boats.
Join us for a thrilling, freestyle adventure as we head off the beaten track and cruise through Icy Bay.

The captain will set our route on the day, seeking out the best adventures and experiences based on the conditions. We’ll sail between icebergs as we venture toward the colossal Guyot Glacier, which tumbles down into the bay. Be on the lookout for the playful harbor seals who call this icy wonderland home.

Alert Bay - Cultural Performance
Included
Duration At leisure
Learn about the relationship between people and land in this traditional display by the Kwakwaka’wakw community.
Breathtaking Alert Bay is a Kwakwaka’wakw First Nations community. While here, you’ll enjoy a cultural performance and a tour of the U’mista Cultural Centre.

This close-knit community's stories, values and traditions come alive in this vibrant display. You’ll experience songs, storytelling and dances passed down through generations, reflecting the community’s deep connection to the land, sea and sky.

College Fjord - Prince William Sound Glacier Cruising
Included
Duration 1 - 1.5 hours
Discover the immense glaciers of Prince William Sound on a thrilling small boat cruise.
With 17 tidewater glaciers and dozens of valley glaciers, there are several epic locations we can choose to explore on our small boat cruise through the fjords of Prince William Sound.

The captain will set our route on the day, seeking out the best adventures and experiences based on the conditions. You might catch sight of humpback whales, bald eagles, otters and sea lions, all of which inhabit this icy wilderness.

Itinerary

Day 1 Adventures in Anchorage
Explore Alaska's biggest city
Your Alaskan adventure starts with an overnight stay in Anchorage, a city with plenty of restaurants, galleries and shops. The Anchorage Museum and the Alaska Native Heritage Center give you a taste of local culture. If you prefer the open air, why not visit the flowering Town Square Park, or go salmon fishing in Ship Creek.

To get the most out of your stay, we recommend joining our optional Pre-Programme to the incredible Denali National Park, home to North America’s highest peak and a huge range of Alaskan wildlife.

To get the most out of your stay, we recommend joining our optional Pre-Programme to the incredible Denali National Park, home to North America’s highest peak and a huge range of Alaskan wildlife.

Day 2 A first taste of awesome Alaskan
Enjoy a drive through spectacular scenery
After breakfast you’ll enjoy a scenic drive to Seward. Our route goes through the Kenai Peninsula, considered by Alaskans and visitors alike to be some of the world’s most awe-inspiring backcountry scenery. The transfer will take you through this stunning scenery as we wend our way to the Pacific coast where our expedition ship awaits.

Our embarkation point, Seward, is the only deep-water ice-free port with road, rail and air connections to Alaska’s interior. Once you board MS Roald Amundsen, locate your cabin and explore this spacious and comfortable expedition ship which will be your home for almost two weeks.

Day 3 Ivy League glaciers
Get ready to experience nature’s raw power
Today we visit College Fjord, which features five tidewater glaciers and five valley glaciers, as well as a dozen other types.

The 1899 Harriman expedition team, which charted the fjord, named the glaciers after their alma maters, including Vassar, Harvard and Yale. Princeton is missing, apparently a deliberate snub.

We’ll get as close to the glaciers as we safely can, taking our small expedition boats into the fjord or even exploring by kayak if conditions permit. From the water, you might catch sight of humpback whales, Bald Eagles, otters and sea lions, all of which inhabit this icy wilderness.

Day 4 Glaciers of Icy Bay
Spot wildlife in these glacier-fed waters
Today is an exploration day in Icy Bay. Three glaciers – Guyot, Yahtse and Tyndall – regularly calve into this bay. If conditions allow, you’ll explore in our small expedition boats or by kayak, immersing you in the remarkable beauty of this icy landscape.

Wildlife abounds in the Gulf of Alaska, offering unrivalled photography opportunities. Humpback whales, orcas, Stellar sea lions, sea otters and harbour seals lazing on floating chunks of ice are often seen in these waters.

Day 5 William Henry Bay
See ancient forests, wildlife and whales
In the morning we’ll pass by Point Adolphus, located on the northern tip of Chichagof Island across from Glacier Bay National Park. The nutrient-rich waters are known for attracting humpback whales and other marine life, so be sure to get out on deck and have your camera ready.

William Henry Bay lies south of Haines at the edge of the Chilkat Range mountains, and is home to brown bears, black bears and moose. Under the watchful eye of an expert local guide, we’ll drop anchor here and explore the shores lined with old-growth forest.

Day 6 Tlingit crafts in Haines
Discover an artistic heritage in the 'Valley of the Eagles'
Near the head of the Lynn Canal lies the frontier town of Haines, which was originally home to the Chilkat Tlingit people. They are renowned for their weaving skills, with mountain goat fur and cedar bark woven into intricate designs, and here, you’ll see excellent examples of their work.

Haines has a flourishing art scene, with galleries and workshops showcasing totem carvings, silverwork and sculptures. Taking home some Alaskan arts and crafts is a great way to support local creators. The beautiful landscapes here are also ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting.

Day 7 Tracy Arm and Endicott Arm
See the lesser-known gems of Holkham Bay
Holkham Bay is home to two beautiful fjords – Tracy Arm and Endicott Arm. Your Captain will decide which offers better exploration options on the day.

At the end of each fjord, fresh icebergs calve from the glaciers against a stunning backdrop of rocky cliffs. This area is a breeding ground for harbour seals, who are often seen on the floating ice. You might also see whales, bears and mountain goats.

Day 8 Blended Cultures of Sitka
Take in Sitka’s views and unique mix of cultures
Surrounded by Tongass National Forest, Sitka is only accessible by sea or air. Get out on deck for stunning views of the Sisters Mountains and Mount Edgecumbe volcano.

Inhabited by the Tlingit people for 10,000 years, the town was settled by Russian explorers around the turn of the 19th century before being sold to the United States after Russia lost the Crimean War. Today, Sitka has roots in all three cultures.

A visit to the Russian Orthodox cathedral and Russian Bishop's House is recommended. Admire ornate Haida and Tlingit totem poles at Sitka National Historical Park and enjoy a walking trail through the forest to the ocean.

Day 9 The wonders of the southeast
Discover Southeast Alaska’s magical waterways
Explore Alaska in true expedition style on today’s exploration day in this magical corner of the Inside Passage.

Conditions permitting, we may take to the water in our small expedition boats, and seek out secluded coves, iceberg-filled bays, and thickly forested shorelines. Try and catch a glimpse of some of Alaska’s most iconic wildlife, including Bald Eagles, Pigeon Guillemots, otters, whales and even bears, if luck is on our side.

Day 10 Wrangell's Petroglyphs
Visit one of Alaska’s oldest harbour towns
We continue cruising the Alaskan islands towards Wrangell. Only a mile out of town, Petroglyph Beach is where you'll see ancient rock carvings among the sand.

Visit the local museum to learn more about Wrangell's fascinating past. Now part of the United States, it was once governed by Britain, Russia and the Tlingit people. Cross to Shakes Island, where the Chief Shakes Tribal House and totem poles tell the story of the Indigenous Tlingit people.

Hikers will enjoy the nature trails, surrounded by alluring scenery at the mouth of Stikine River, and the foot of Mount Dewey at the edge of the rainforest.

Day 11 Unspoiled Misty Fjords
Revel in a wilderness where wildlife thrives
Part of the Tongass National Forest, Misty Fjords is a pristine wilderness of evergreens, waterfalls and snow-capped peaks. The revered naturalist writer John Muir described the area as one of the most beautiful places he’d ever seen.

Weather permitting, you'll join the Expedition Team to tour Misty Fjords in our small expedition boats, or take kayaks out.

Misty Fjords is rich in wildlife. You’ll scan for mountain goats, bears and moose as you explore. The waters are home to Pacific salmon, otters, sea lions, harbour seals, orcas and Dall’s porpoises. Skywards, you might spot herons and Bald Eagles.

Day 12 Canada's Inside Passage
See sublime scenery as we sail the Inside Passage
The Inside Passage coastal route takes us through the great North American Pacific Fjordland, a protected stretch of water over 930 miles long. Unlike other cruises which pass through at night, you’ll be able to view the sublime scenery in all its glory during the day.

Our smaller expedition ship allows us to reach areas that larger vessels can’t, meaning you’ll get to explore lesser-travelled channels with breathtaking scenery. Keep your cameras and binoculars at the ready to catch sight of dolphins, porpoises, orcas and humpback whales.

Day 13 Meet the Kwakwaka’wakw
Receive a warm welcome in Alert Bay
We arrive at Alert Bay, a scenic village on Cormorant Island, north of Vancouver Island. Here we'll have the opportunity to meet and learn from the Kwakwaka’wakw First Nations community – to be welcomed by them is a real privilege.

At the U'mista Cultural Center, you'll see elaborate totem poles, paintings, carvings, ceremonial masks and other meaningful artifacts.

The island’s sheltered waters attract a huge array of wildlife – the Yellow-billed Loon, with its distinctive speckled back, is a particular highlight. Keep an eye out for orcas and humpback whales close to shore.

Day 14 A taste of Vancouver
Disembark in British Columbia’s iconic city
Your expedition cruise ends in Vancouver, a beautiful city at the foot of the Rockies. Visit Gastown, the city's oldest neighbourhood, and climb Vancouver Lookout for a citywide view overlooking neon-lit Granville Street, the West End beaches, and the towering cedars of Stanley Park.

Vancouver has a flavour all its own – and so does its global cuisine. Before your onward journey, we recommend you dine out in Chinatown, Punjabi Market or Little Italy for a taste of the city's buzzing atmosphere.

Excursions & Activities
Icy Bay - Icy Bay Small Boat Cruising
Included
Duration 45 mins - 1 hour
Discover Icy Bay’s glaciers and icebergs in explorer style as we cruise aboard our small expedition boats.
Join us for a thrilling, freestyle adventure as we head off the beaten track and cruise through Icy Bay.

The captain will set our route on the day, seeking out the best adventures and experiences based on the conditions. We’ll sail between icebergs as we venture toward the colossal Guyot Glacier, which tumbles down into the bay. Be on the lookout for the playful harbor seals who call this icy wonderland home.

Alert Bay - Cultural Performance
Included
Duration At leisure
Learn about the relationship between people and land in this traditional display by the Kwakwaka’wakw community.
Breathtaking Alert Bay is a Kwakwaka’wakw First Nations community. While here, you’ll enjoy a cultural performance and a tour of the U’mista Cultural Centre.

This close-knit community's stories, values and traditions come alive in this vibrant display. You’ll experience songs, storytelling and dances passed down through generations, reflecting the community’s deep connection to the land, sea and sky.

College Fjord - Prince William Sound Glacier Cruising
Included
Duration 1 - 1.5 hours
Discover the immense glaciers of Prince William Sound on a thrilling small boat cruise.
With 17 tidewater glaciers and dozens of valley glaciers, there are several epic locations we can choose to explore on our small boat cruise through the fjords of Prince William Sound.

The captain will set our route on the day, seeking out the best adventures and experiences based on the conditions. You might catch sight of humpback whales, bald eagles, otters and sea lions, all of which inhabit this icy wilderness.


© HX
© HX
© HX


INCLUSIONS

Hotel
• Overnight in Anchorage, including breakfast, before the expedition cruise

Transfers
• Transfer from the hotel in Anchorage to the ship in Seward, including English-speaking guide and a packed lunch.
• If your tour starts on 9 June 2025 and ends on 22 June 2025, you'll disembark in Nanaimo, transfer to Vancouver airport (or city centre) with a ferry ticket. The 3-hour transfer arrives at the airport by 1pm.

Expedition Cruise
• A stay in a cabin of your choice
• Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Wine, beer and spirits available at meals and throughout the day and evening (subject to licensing laws, excludes premium drinks)*
• All day coffee, tea and soft drinks
• Meals and take-away available throughout the day during Fredheim restaurant opening hours
• Fine dining in restaurant Lindstrřm included for suite guests
• A complimentary water bottle to refill on board and take home
• A polar expedition jacket, a backpack, or another piece of HX kit
• Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer
• Complimentary Wi-Fi. Please note, streaming is not supported
• Use of sauna, hot tubs, pool, fitness room, lounges and more
• Gratuities included. Fantastic service is standard at HX – though if you’d like to leave something extra, it’s always appreciated
• Range of included activities 
• * From 2025. Only available at mealtimes on 2024 voyages.

Onboard Activities
• In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by our knowledgeable Expedition Team
• Use of our Science Centre, including the library and advanced biological and geological equipment
• The Citizen Science Program allows guests to assist with ongoing scientific research 
• An onboard professional photographer will give tips and tricks for taking the best landscape and wildlife photos
• Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings
• Daily briefing with the Expedition Team about the plans for the next day

Landing Activities
• Escorted landings with small expedition boats
• Loan of boots, trekking poles, and all equipment for activities Your HX travel documents will have a recommended packing list.
• Expedition photographers on hand to assist you

Notes
• All planned activities are subject to weather and ice conditions
• Excursions and activities are subject to change
• Please make sure you meet all entry and boarding requirements 
• Depending on your flight times, an additional overnight stay might be needed (not included)

EXCLUSIONS

• International flights
• Additional overnight(s) if required due to international flight timings
• Travel insurance
• Luggage handling
• Optional shore excursions with our local partners
• Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team
• Optional treatments in the onboard wellness and spa area


* The prices are per person in US Dollars, unless expressly specified in a different currency. In that case, payment will be in US dollars at the exchange rate of the day.
** Rates are correct at the time of publication. All prices will be re-confirmed by email at the time of booking.
NOTE: Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy—and excitement—of expedition travel. When traveling in extremely remote regions, your expedition staff must allow the sea, the ice and the weather to guide route and itinerary details. This itinerary is a tentative outline of what you’ll experience on this voyage; please be aware that no specific itinerary can be guaranteed.

Gallery



Other options you will like


 



THE POLAR TRAVEL COMPANY LLC
USA

8175 NW 12 ST #120, Doral, FL 33126
Miami - Dade, Florida
Tel: +1 (786) 321-5654
WhatsApp: +1 (786) 705-2241
Email: travel@thepolartravelcompany.com

International Travel Awards - 2023 Winner

© 2020 The Polar Travel Company | All rights reserved | Terms & Conditions
THE POLAR TRAVEL COMPANY LLC is registered with the State of Florida as a Seller of Travel. Registration No. ST42392.

Write us via WhatsApp